Colorado is one of the most iconic states with legalized recreational cannabis. From Trinidad to Denver, the cannabis industry is booming. From Julesburg to Cortez, you can find dispensaries scattered all over the state. In a place where the nearest recreational cannabis dispensary is often less than 30 minutes away, why would you get a medical marijuana card?

Good question. Many people can enjoy cannabis for medical purposes with just recreational shopping. However, securing a medical marijuana card comes with several unique and valuable benefits for those with qualifying conditions. Join us as we dive into a medical card’s subtle yet important advantages in a recreational state like Colorado.

4 Reasons to Get a Medical Card in Colorado, a Recreational State

1. Tax Benefits for Medical Patients

Medical patients enjoy a lower sales tax when buying medical marijuana. Recreational cannabis is usually taxed fairly high, while the same selection sold as medical cannabis sees a much lower tax rate, making each purchase more affordable.

In Colorado, the recreational cannabis tax rate is 15%, while the medical cannabis tax rate is 2.9%. That is a big difference, and your budget will notice immediately.

Many dispensaries will also offer discounts or better seasonal deals for medical patients.

3. Access to a Wider Variety of Cannabis Products

Medical cardholders are given preference for high-potency cannabis and have permission to buy and keep a much larger quantity.

Some strains of cannabis are cultivated just for medical use. Specifically, medical strains and products tend to have the highest potency on the market, as they are considered “medical grade” compared to the gentler strains that are safer for casual and recreational use.

Medical marijuana cardholders can also purchase and possess twice the amount compared to recreational cannabis users. In Colorado, you can purchase and own up to one ounce of leaf, up to 8 grams of concentrates, and/or up to 800 mg of edibles for recreational use. Medical patients can purchase up to two ounces, 16 grams of concentrates, and/or 1600 mg of edibles for medical use.

You may also be offered first dibs on choice strains that are preferred for medical use, even if they are also for recreational sale.

3. Potential Health Benefits of Medical Marijuana

According to numerous studies, the potential medical benefits of cannabis include:

Pain relief
Anti-inflammatory
Stress and anxiety reduction
Depression treatment
Relief from nervous system disorders
Seizure reduction
Appetite enhancement
Metabolism and immune system balancing

There are many potential therapeutic uses for cannabis. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help you explore the possibilities cannabis might offer for your medical needs. A doctor can help you determine if a medical marijuana card is right for you.

3. Granted Privacy and Confidentiality

Medical cardholders are typically granted additional privacy protections compared to recreational users. This allows you to protect your personal medical information under HIPAA policies that apply to all medical records, including medication purchasing. You are less likely to have your information disclosed to advertisers and business partners as a medical customer of any dispensary.

How to Get a Medical Card in Colorado: Qualifying Conditions

Attaining a medical card in Colorado requires having at least one of the following qualifying conditions:

Debilitating Medical Conditions

Cancer
Glaucoma
HIV or AIDS
Cachexia
Persistent muscle spasms
Seizures
Severe nausea
Severe pain

Disabling Medical Conditions

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
An Autism Spectrum Disorder
Any condition for which a physician could prescribe an opioid

You will need a formal diagnosis and to complete an online application with proof of your Colorado residency, age (over 18), and condition.

Experience the Trust: Quality, Compassion, and Care at Every Visit

At The Trust Cannabis Company, we seek to nurture your cannabis experience. Whether you are looking to ease the symptoms of a medical condition or wish to simply relax for the weekend, you can rely on our cannabis quality and the compassionate care our staff provides for each member of our community. Contact us or shop our Boulder dispensary for more cannabis insights, guidance, and high-quality cannabis products.